Fostering student learning in information security fields through collaborative learning in virtual computer laboratories

This paper discusses the benefits of group work in a Collaborative Virtual Computer Laboratory (CVCLAB) to enhance student learning in information security fields. The CVCLAB integrates virtual machine technologies and pedagogical approaches in a collaborative leaning model to address the challenges in the information security education. A qualitative analysis of student experiences of the CVCLAB was performed using the grounded theory. The outcomes of this qualitative analysis indicated that students who performed challenging activities in groups experienced less frustration and reported higher satisfaction with the activities and learning environment. Finally, the paper recommends strategies to design collaborative activities for virtual computer laboratories.